After nearly four years of planning, design and reconstruction, Baillie Lodges’ flagship property, Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, reopened late last year. The original hotel was destroyed during the 2019–2020 Kangaroo Island bushfires, and the rebuilt lodge restores and enhances the experience while respecting the site’s dramatic coastal setting.
© George Apostolidis
The reconstruction follows the original footprint, preserving the much-loved Great Room and its suspended fireplace, which continue to anchor the lodge on the limestone cliffs overlooking the Southern Ocean. The property offers 23 luxurious suites facing the coastline, all refurbished to exceed their previous standard. Native wildlife—kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and other species—still roam the surrounding terrain, reinforcing the sense of being immersed in wild coastal bushland.
Guest suites have been subtly reoriented to face southeast, ensuring uninterrupted views across the ocean and the rolling coastal hills. Every suite now includes a private deck, an Eco-Smart fireplace and a deep, freestanding bathtub, while preserving the lodge’s signature perks: spectacular sunrises, sea mists and the powerful sight of waves breaking on the shoreline.
© George Apostolidis
New to the property is an ultra-premium Ocean Pavilion spanning 6,700 square feet. Modeled on the residence-style pavilions found across the Baillie Lodges collection, it offers expansive ocean views, an outdoor terrace with a wet-edge pool, and private accommodation that can include up to four bedrooms and bathrooms or be configured as two separate suites. Select suites—Osprey, Remarkable and Flinders—have received design updates that maximize light and coastal outlooks.
Public and amenity improvements enhance the guest experience throughout the property. A private dining snug adjoins a walk-in cellar for intimate meals and curated wine experiences. The sun terrace features an edgeless pool that curves along the cliff edge. The Southern Spa occupies a new location with room for three treatment rooms, a gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge pools that look out over native bushland.
© George Apostolidis
The rebuild was led by original architect Max Pritchard and his partner Andrew Gunner, ensuring the new lodge retains the design integrity and spirit of the original. Southern Ocean Lodge remains committed to sourcing food and beverages from South Australian and Kangaroo Island producers, supporting the regional economy by using exclusively local produce wherever possible. The lodge’s interiors are enriched by more than 40 works curated from Kangaroo Island-born artist Janine Mackintosh, which add a distinctly local artistic voice throughout the property.